Twenty-three first-year students at the University of Ilorin have received scholarships, annual cash grants and laptops through an education support initiative by Airtel Nigeria and the Airtel Africa Foundation.
The awards were presented on July 28, 2026, during the university’s Students’ Union inauguration ceremony. Each beneficiary received a ₦500,000 annual grant, which has already been paid directly to the students, a brand-new laptop to support digital learning, and access to a structured mentorship programme that will run throughout their academic journey.
According to the University, the scholarships will be renewed annually until graduation, provided recipients maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.5.
Speaking at the event, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alex Morenikeji Akanmu, said the initiative concluded under the Adelu-led Students’ Union administration following a rigorous selection process to identify deserving students.
Airtel Nigeria State Business Manager Latif Lawal presented the laptops alongside the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN. Lawal noted that the University of Ilorin recorded the highest number of scholarship recipients—23 students—among six Nigerian universities selected for the Airtel Africa Foundation programme.
The initiative underscores Airtel Nigeria and the Airtel Africa Foundation’s continued investment in expanding access to higher education, promoting digital inclusion, and supporting the development of future talent through financial assistance, technology and mentorship.
